Backpack Australia - Backpack in Australia - Backpack around Australia
Backpack Australia Advice
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INFORMATION ON SAFETY IN AUSTRALIA
Generally speaking, Australia is a safe country to travel and has a reasonably low crime rate. There are strict gun control laws, which provide a safe environment for all travellers and citizens.
It is common sense to take a few issues into consideration to prevent any unwanted situations from occurring. Use the same initiatives you would use in your home country and be aware of the following:
- Do not hitchhike. Use public or private transport instead, which is available in most Australian cities and towns.
- Avoid going out by yourself at night. If possible travel in pairs or groups.
- When camping or travelling long distances be sure to take plenty of water with you and alert someone of your travel plans.
- Ensure you completely extinguish any campfires.
- Always swim or surf at patrolled beaches between the marked flags only.
- Protect yourself against the sun with a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen with coverage of at least 15 SPF. The Australian sun is very harsh with two out of three Australians suffering from skin damage.
- If you visit Tropical North Queensland during the period of late October to early May, you need to be aware of the dangers of box jellyfish (stingers). Stingers are also present in the warm coastal waters in Northern Australia and WA.
- Crocodiles are also present in the northern areas of Australia.
You need to be aware of where it is safe to swim.
Be aware and follow directions of any safety signs. - In case of emergency, dial 000.
